Middle East cannot afford new displacement crisis: UN refugee agency chief

The Mideast cannot afford yet another displacement crisis, the UN refugee agency said on Wednesday as it tried to help Lebanese civilians fleeing their homes due to Israel’s continuing deadly airstrikes.

“Thousands of Lebanese and Syrian people are fleeing Lebanon for Syria in desperation as Israeli airstrikes continue to devastate civilian lives,” UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) chief Filippo Grandi said in a statement. “The Middle East cannot afford a new displacement crisis,” he added.

The agency is ramping up its support to address the growing displacement crisis, offering essential aid to those escaping the escalating conflict, the statement noted.

“Hundreds of vehicles are backed up in queues at the Syrian border,” it said, adding: “Many people are also arriving on foot, carrying what they can. Large crowds, including women, young children and babies are waiting in line after spending the night outdoors in falling temperatures.”

Noting that some carry fresh injuries from Israel’s recent bombardments, it said the bloodshed is “extracting a terrible toll,” driving tens of thousands from their homes.

“It is yet another ordeal for families who previously fled war in Syria only now to be bombed in the country where they sought shelter,” Grandi said. “We must avoid replaying these scenes of despair and devastation.”

“Let us not create one by forcing more people to abandon their homes. Protecting civilian lives must be the priority,” he added.

The UNHCR, in collaboration with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, is providing critical assistance at border points.

Displaced individuals are receiving food, water, blankets, and mattresses, along with guidance on additional support available within Syria.